Juventus are set to make history as they field their youngest-ever starting lineup in a Champions League knockout match, with an average age of just 25 years and 171 days. As the Bianconeri face PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of their playoff round, this milestone reflects the club’s bold reliance on youth under head coach Thiago Motta.
A New Era of Youth
Gazzetta dello Sport detail how Thiago Motta has consistently emphasized the youthful nature of his squad, which brings both advantages and challenges. On one hand, Juventus benefits from a lower wage bill and a team that is energetic, fearless, and hungry for success. On the other hand, the lack of experience can make it difficult to navigate high-pressure situations like those faced in the Champions League knockout stages.
This match marks Juventus’ return to the elimination phase of the competition after a three-year absence. The last time they reached this stage, they were eliminated by Villarreal in 2022 with a squad averaging 28 years of age—three years older than today’s lineup. Comparisons to past Juventus teams further highlight this generational shift. For instance, during their last Champions League final in 2017, when they lost 4-1 to Real Madrid, their squad had an average age close to 31.
If there’s one colour that defines Motta’s Juventus, it’s green—a symbol of youth and potential.
Challenges of Inexperience
While this youthful squad represents a fresh start for Juventus, it also comes with its share of challenges. For the first time in 30 years, the Bianconeri enter the Champions League knockout rounds without a single player who has previously won the competition. Veteran Danilo was the last remaining “Champions League winner” in the squad before his departure.
This is a stark contrast to previous eras when Juventus could rely on seasoned winners like Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrea Pirlo, or Alessandro Del Piero. The absence of such players means Motta must guide his young team through uncharted waters with composure and tactical discipline.
“The margins for error are minimal,” Motta acknowledged ahead of the match. “The energy and desire must never turn into nervousness. This is a delicate first step for many of our players.”
Key Players to Watch
Among the youngest players expected to feature are Kenan Yildiz and Renato Veiga. Yildiz has already caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs with his creative flair and technical ability, while Veiga—a January signing—has impressed in his limited appearances so far.
The team’s leadership falls on captain Manuel Locatelli, who represents the bridge between youth and experience at just 27 years old. Many of Juventus’ summer signings—spanning defense to attack—will also play crucial roles as they aim to bring balance and stability to this youthful side.
A Historic Matchup
Juventus’ opponents, PSV Eindhoven, bring their own challenges to this encounter. Led by captain Luuk de Jong, PSV boasts physicality and experience that could test Juventus’ young squad. However, Motta remains confident: “We are ready for anything and want to deliver an outstanding performance.”
The stakes are high as Juventus looks to not only make history but also prove that youth can triumph on Europe’s biggest stage. The second leg will take place in Eindhoven next week, adding further pressure on tonight’s performance at home.
